Komar waves goodbye after 38 memorable years

Meghan Baka

A lot of things can change in 38 years. From fashions, interests and everything in between, one thing has stayed the same at Hudson, science teacher Richard Komar. Komar has been an active teacher at our school for 38 years. While everything changed around him, Komar maintained the same excellence in teaching and love for his students and science.

This year, however, is Komar’s last. He has made the “bittersweet” decision to enter into retirement and begin a new chapter in his life. Before he begins his new and exciting journey of no school and free time, he reflects on his decision, his memories and life at HHS in general over the decades.

Was it a difficult decision to leave this year?

Yes, it was a difficult decision but I had a list of reasons why it had to be this year. It’s mostly that the teaching requirements have become too difficult and they aren’t headed in a good direction for me to continue teaching the ways I would like to. I really love the environment here, so it’s bittersweet not being able to see the kids and my teacher friends every day.

What made you continue teaching all these years?

The great kids that I work with every day at HHS have kept me here for so long. They are all very nice and academically focused. It’s just a really nice environment to be in. I love all of my teacher friends and enjoy the humor from the kids. They continue to keep me young.

How did you decide to become a teacher?

I started teaching in college and really enjoyed it. I started off teaching music but eventually switched to science since those were my two favorite subjects.

What will you miss about not coming to school every day?

Obviously just the kids and all my friends. Just the overall commotion of school in general.

Do you have any plans for all your new free time?

Yes, I have many things that will keep me busy. I’m going to continue talking on my amateur radio and fly radio planes I build myself. I actually have a plane that’s been in the building process for about seven or eight years now so that will finally get finished! I will also travel and go camping.

What do you believe is the most important thing you’ve taught your students?

I’ve always tried to teach them to work hard and take everything in stride.

Do you have an earliest memory from teaching in Hudson?

I remember [Ron] Koroly and I using a syringe to test the flammability of hydrogen and accidentally making a rocket that almost went through the back window of the old high school.

What is your funniest memory from teaching?

A student asked me if talking on an amateur radio was like talking in a chat room. At first I said no, and then I went on to explain that we talk about our “equipment” usually first. Then I started laughing and saying well maybe it is the same. I laughed all day long about that one.